Emergency rule approved in Waterloo

WATERLOO (KWWL) -- In case of emergency, Waterloo's mayor now has the power to act.

"In case of natural disaster, a war, an act of terrorism," Mayor Tim Hurley told the City Council Monday night, "you need somebody that is empowered to act quickly."

With that in mind, the City Council adopted an ordinance giving the Waterloo mayor the power to declare emergencies.

The issue came up during this summer's flood and the need to evacuate downtown Waterloo. The power is covered in a state law, but the supporters say the city ordinance puts more specific limits and controls on that power.